4.5
(49)
521
hikers
32
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Ballytrustan traverse a rural landscape characterized by trees and fields on the Ards Peninsula. The area offers scenic walks near Strangford Lough, with gentle terrain suitable for various activity levels. Landmarks such as a windmill and St. Patrick's Church can be found along some routes.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
4.7
(3)
75
hikers
4.66km
01:15
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
3.76km
00:58
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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27
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
15
hikers
5.12km
01:18
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
hikers
5.29km
01:25
60m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The narrow path leads through dense vegetation, the light gently breaks through the leaves and creates an almost mystical atmosphere. It is pleasantly cool and you can hear nothing except the gentle rustling of the leaves and the crunching of the gravel under your tires. A place where you like to drive slower, take in the surroundings and enjoy the feeling of peace.
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Wikipedia (Audley's Castle, 2022-10-08): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audley%27s_Castle https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audley%E2%80%99s_Castle Official tourism website for Northern Ireland (Audley's Castle, 2022-10-08): https://discovernorthernireland.com/things-to-do/audleys-castle-p707501 Official tourism website for Northern Ireland (Visit Game of Thrones - Filming Locations, 2022-10-08): https://discovernorthernireland.com/blog/read/2020/06/visit-game-of-thrones-filming-locations-b147 “… Within the Castle Ward demesne, you can make your way over to Audley's Field where Robb Stark meets Talisa after the battle at Oxcross. …“ #GoT #BattleOfOxcross #WarOfTheFiveKings
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National Trust (Castle Ward, 2023-12-24): https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/northern-ireland/castle-ward https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tl_SVBg9R8U Wikipedia (Castle Ward, 2023-12-24): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castle_Ward https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castle_Ward “… The most interesting aspect of Castle Ward is that of its dual architecture, representing the differing tastes of Lord Bangor and his wife, Lady Ann Bligh. While the entrance side of the building is done in a classical Palladian style with columns supporting a triangular pediment, the opposite side is Georgian Gothic with pointed windows, battlements and finials. …”
2
1
Great place for a run along the coastline.
0
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Mallard Plantation is just a short distance away from Castle Ward, yet it feels like another world; with singsong birds, flowering wood sorrel, high towering emerald trees, and a truly magical ambiance.
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Best known for its role as "Winterfell" in Game of Thrones, Castle Ward is an 18th-century National Trust property located in Strangford. With its distinctive blend of classical and gothic styles, the castle and its estate grace the picturesque shores of Strangford Lough. Tours of the castle and estate are available year-round. For more information, visit: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/northern-ireland/castle-ward
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Here is a great vantage point to enjoy the best of the sensational River Quoile. Enjoy beautiful scenery of rounded hills and marshes as you pass the tranquil riverside and keep your eyes peeled for local bird and wildlife that are often seeing relaxing on the water.
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Best known for its place as "Winterfell" in Game of Thrones, Castle Ward is an 18th-century National Trust property in Strangford. With two unique styles of classical and gothic, the castle & its estate is located in a beautiful location near the shore of Strangford Lough. Tours are available year round of the castle and estate.
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There are 20 easy hiking trails around Ballytrustan, offering a variety of routes through the rural landscape of the Ards Peninsula. These trails are generally characterized by gentle elevation changes and scenic views near Strangford Lough.
Easy hikes in Ballytrustan predominantly feature rural paths, fields, and wooded areas. The terrain is generally gentle with minimal elevation changes, making it suitable for various activity levels. Many routes offer views of Strangford Lough.
Yes, many of the easy trails around Ballytrustan are suitable for families. Routes like the Castle Ward Farm Trail are popular choices, exploring estate grounds with gentle paths that are enjoyable for all ages.
Many trails in the Ballytrustan area are dog-friendly, but it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially when passing through farmland or areas with livestock. Specific rules may apply to certain estates or nature reserves, so check local signage.
Yes, you can find several circular routes. For example, the Castle Ward Shore Car Park loop from Strangford offers a pleasant coastal walk that brings you back to your starting point.
While hiking, you might encounter local landmarks such as St. Patrick's Church or a windmill on a nearby hill. Many trails are also close to historical sites like Castle Ward and Audley's Castle, or natural features like the Forest Path Along Strangford Lough.
Parking is generally available at popular trailheads and attractions. For instance, the Castle Ward Shore Car Park is a common starting point for several routes in the area.
The rural landscape of Ballytrustan is enjoyable throughout the year. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and milder weather, while autumn provides beautiful foliage. Winter walks can be tranquil, but paths may be muddier. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Absolutely. Many easy trails in the Ballytrustan area, particularly those near Strangford Lough, offer stunning coastal views. The Lecale Way, for example, features flat terrain with expansive views across the water.
The easy hiking trails around Ballytrustan are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 40 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquil rural setting, the scenic views of Strangford Lough, and the well-maintained paths suitable for a relaxed outing.
Yes, several easy hikes offer glimpses of historical sites. The Castle Ward Farm Trail explores the grounds of Castle Ward, which includes the famous Castle Ward Tower (Winterfell Filming Location), offering a blend of nature and history.
While many easy routes are shorter, you can combine sections or explore longer designated paths. For instance, the Hiking loop from Killard National Nature Reserve offers a slightly longer easy option at over 5 km, allowing for a more extended stroll through the natural landscape.


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